Part 3 of a 3-part series on protecting elderly relatives from scams. Part 1: phone scams · Part 2: online scams
Doorstep scams rely on catching someone alone and unprepared, and on sounding official or urgent enough that questioning them feels awkward. A few simple habits remove almost all of that pressure.
The most common ones
- Rogue traders. Someone offers to fix a roof, driveway, or guttering "while they're in the area," often claiming urgent work is needed, then charges far more than agreed or does poor-quality work.
- Fake officials. Someone shows up claiming to be from the water board, council, or a utility company, asking to come in to "check something," sometimes as a distraction while someone else enters another way.
- Charity or prize scams. A caller collects for a fake charity, or claims a prize has been won that requires an upfront "fee" or bank details to release.
Steps that keep them out
- Always ask for ID, and check it properly — genuine officials expect this and won't rush you.
- Use a door chain or speak through a closed door first. You don't have to open the door to anyone.
- Call the company or organisation back on a number you look up yourself before letting anyone in or agreeing to work.
- Never feel pressured to decide or pay on the spot. A genuine trader will always let you think it over.
- Agree a simple "safe word" with family that a genuine emergency caller or visitor would know, so a distressing call or knock can be quickly checked.
If something feels off, trust that instinct — it's usually right.